Crunch, county extend lease agreement through ’30

The Syracuse Crunch, in partnership with Onondaga County and SMG, have announced a 12-year lease extension that will ensure the Crunch continue to play home games at the War Memorial Arena through the 2029-30 season.

“We are delighted to have reached an agreement on a new 12-year lease and appreciate the efforts from the county, the legislature and SMG in bringing this to fruition,” said Crunch owner Howard Dolgon. “The Syracuse Crunch are excited to begin our 25th season on Saturday in a spectacular newly-renovated arena that will bring an improved experience to fans attending our games throughout the years.”

The Crunch boast the AHL’s longest independent ownership group, led by Dolgon, and have the fourth-longest current tenure of any American Hockey League team.

“The SMG management team at the Onondaga War Memorial are thrilled to execute a long-term lease agreement with Syracuse Crunch,” said SMG general manager Matt Hollander. “Today’s lease signing ensures that professional hockey will continue to enhance the quality of life for Onondaga County residents for many years to come.”

Prior to the start of the 2018-19 season, the Tampa Bay Lightning and Syracuse Crunch announced a five-year affiliation extension, with an option for two additional years, to ensure Tampa Bay’s top prospects will develop their talents in Syracuse through the 2022-23 season, with a mutual option for 2023-24 and 2024-25.